45-Day Dry-Aged Beef Kaprao (Basil Stir Fry) in Bangkok, Thailand

45-Day Dry-Aged Beef Basil Stir Fry

by Gapao Tapae, Bangkok, Thailand

When I last ate at Gapao Tapae in Bangkok, Thailand, I was there for one thing and one thing only: their infamous Carolina reaper kaprao, a mouth-scorching dish that uses the world's hottest chili pepper to impart incredible flavors to the classic Thai basil stir fry dish.

Their menu really intrigued me, though, and I really wanted to visit again. This time, I ordered Gapao Tapae's unique and highly recommended dry-aged beef kaprao. 

45-day dry-aged Thai basil beef stir fry at Gapao Tapae

Dry-aged beef is a premium ingredient prized for its rich, deep, and complex flavor profile. The process of dry-aging involves storing cuts of beef, typically high-quality steaks or larger primal cuts, in a controlled environment where temperature, humidity, and airflow are carefully regulated.

During the dry-aging process, natural enzymes break down proteins and fats in the meat, enhancing its taste and creating a rich, complex flavor profile often described as nutty, earthy, and buttery with a concentrated umami depth. At the same time, the aging process breaks down connective tissues in the meat, resulting in a tender and more velvety texture.

a plate of Gapao Tapae's famous dry-aged beef kaprao in Bangkok, Thailand

The kaprao was even more flavorful than I had anticipated (high praise for what I often cite as my favorite Thai dish). The rich buttery nuttiness and soft texture of the minced beef added a new flavor and texture profile to a Thai classic.

In the traditional style, the minced beef was stir-fried with garlic, hot Thai chili peppers, and peppery holy basil, served with a scoop of white rice, and topped with a runny-yolked egg.

I'll be back again soon. Another one of Gapao Tapae's signature dishes is their crispy sea bass stir fry, and I feel like I ought not miss out on it!

Location

Gapao Tapae is located in a small restaurant located at 41/1 Soi Sukhumvit 23, Khlong Toei Nuea, Watthana, Bangkok 10110. It's just a 3 or 4-minute walk from Sukhumvit MRT Station and Asoke BTS Station.

Though it's a small local shop, there is a surprising amount of seating inside, and you should be able to get a table (perhaps with a short wait if you arrive in the middle of rush hour).

Gapow Tapae near Sukhumvit MRT Station, Bangkok, Thailand